Q3 2018: Economic Commentary
Global financial markets posted mixed results during the second quarter of 2018 as investors balanced strong earnings, an improving labor market and better economic growth here in the U.S. with political turmoil in Europe and deteriorating trade relations worldwide. We present a few highlights from the 2Q18 below:
- Despite heightened geopolitical rhetoric, the S & P 500, the Dow Jones Industrial Average, and the technology-heavy Nasdaq Composite continued to trade near record highs amid positive economic data and strong corporate earnings. On the economic front, the Federal Reserve raised interest rates by 25 basis points in June to a range of 1.75% to 2%, and upgraded their assessment of U.S. economic growth. Consequently, the FOMC now anticipates raising interest rates four times in 2018.
- Developed international equity markets produced mixed results during the second quarter on political turmoil in Spain and Italy, and rising trade tensions with the U.S. Gains came out of Europe, while the Pacific region lagged. On the political front, the prospect of new elections in Italy and a vote of no confidence against Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy renewed fears of a Eurozone breakup. In the emerging markets, returns were held back by weak performances from Latin America heavyweights Brazil and Mexico.
- Within fixed income, results were mixed as the Fed raised interest rates and the U.S. dollar rose sharply against most major currencies. The 10-year U.S. Treasury briefly traded above the key psychological level of 3% for the first time since January 2014 before settling slightly lower to end the second quarter. Foreign un-hedged bonds and emerging markets debt fell sharply as the U.S. dollar strengthened. Investment grade core U.S. fixed income produced lackluster results, while high yield credit fared marginally better.
- Real estate, both in the U.S. and abroad, advanced during the quarter. In a reversal of the prior quarter, international real estate underperformed U.S. real estate. Commodities ended the quarter higher as energy prices remained resilient. Similarly, MLPs benefited from higher oil prices, an uptick in M&A activity and lack of any significant headline news.
An important lesson from 2Q18:
- The second quarter of 2018 was a good reminder that investors must remain mindful of geopolitical and other event risk and the associated volatility that comes with it. The second quarter was marked by heightened global trade tensions, and in Europe politics was front and center, leading many to wonder if select policy decisions, legislation or elections were enough to derail financial markets. As we enter the second half of 2018, it is more important than ever to remain properly diversified. It is our continued belief that remaining patient and adhering to a well-constructed and diversified investment portfolio anchored to your time horizon and goals remains the prudent course of action.
Terms and Conditions | Privacy Policy | Disclosures
Case studies are intended to illustrate the types of financial issues faced by actual clients. They should not be construed as a testimonial for or endorsement of Lineweaver Wealth Advisors. They do not represent the experience of any advisory client. Each client’s situation is different, and their goals may not always be achieved. Lineweaver Wealth Advisors, LLC, is not engaged in the practice of law or accounting. Tax information provided is general in nature and should not be construed as legal or tax advice. Always consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific legal or tax situation. Tax rules and regulations are subject to change at any time.
Crain's Cleveland Business is a print and online newspaper delivering local business news and information to Cleveland's business executives, which is published by Crain Communications Inc. The Crain's 2024 list may employ different methodology than described above for similar designations granted in other years. No clients were consulted and no fees were paid to determine the winners; the award is based on assets under management. Neither the participating candidates nor their employees pay a fee in exchange for inclusion on Crain's 2024 List. However, recipients may pay a fee to Crain, an affiliate, or an unaffiliated third party in exchange for plaques or article reprints commemorating the designation. The publication should not be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that they will experience a certain level of results if the recipient is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services; and should not be construed as a current or past endorsement of the recipient by any of its clients. Lineweaver Wealth Advisors was ranked in the Top 25 of Crain’s of Cleveland’s annual list of Registered Investment Advisors. The award is based on assets under management in the years 2024. In 2023, Lineweaver Wealth Advisors was ranked in the Top 15 of Crain’s of Cleveland’s annual list of Registered Investment Advisors. The award is based on assets under management in the years 2023. In 2021 and 2022, Lineweaver Wealth Advisors was ranked in the Top 20 of Crain’s of Cleveland’s annual list of Registered Investment Advisors. The award is based on assets under management in the years 2021 and 2022 respectively.
Nominees in the Top 100 Magazine selections are not required to pay a fee for consideration. Individuals appearing in half and full page editorials, have paid a fee for additional exposure. Candidates for consideration are selected utilizing proprietary software. Top 100 Magazine analyzes the results before making their final selections. Financial Professionals and/or wealth managers must also met the following criteria; 1. Be registered with the SEC as a registered investment advisor or a registered investment advisor representative; 2. Have no more than 1 filed complaint with a regulatory agency; 3.Never been convicted of a felony. Third-party rankings and recognitions are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a client or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance or results. These ratings should not be construed as an endorsement of the Financial Professional by any client nor are they representative of any one client's evaluation. Participants for the Top 100 in Finance appearance were reviewed in 2022, and recognized in March of 2023. Lineweaver Financial Group appeared in Money magazine in 2015, Fortune Magazine in 2016, WTAM 1100 in 2018, Forbes in 2020, Channel 5 in 2020, and Top 100 in Finance in 2023.
Lineweaver Financial Group ©
Powered by 
Virteom